“What is he doing?” asked the emperor.
“He appears to be bailing out the boat,” replied the little prince Tiberius.
“By Neptune! They are swamping!” exclaimed Caligula, as a huge wave struck the boat.
“Ay, they have stopped rowing!” shouted the Prince Tiberius, in a tone of fright.
“Now they are all bailing!” added Caligula, excited at the brave fight the men were making.
“They are beginning to row again!” cried the young Tiberius.
“The boat is once more on its way!” gayly shouted Caligula.
“Of a truth, their bravery deserves to be rewarded,” said Tiberius. “Who can be so anxious to reach Capri that they should tempt Fate by such a venture? Here, lad, carry my laurel wreath below. The storm has passed, and these leaves have once again saved my life.”
Caligula hastened below with the wreath, and was soon again watching the struggles of the sailors. A signal was made from the mainland that no one could be found to venture upon the sea at such a time.
“Ye infernal deities, drag the wretches to the realms of Pluto!” shouted Tiberius, enraged. “The captain shall not only be beaten, but he shall die.”